Tips for Patient Safety Awareness Week

Going to the hospital can be a nerve-racking event for many reasons but staying safe doesn’t have to be one. In honor of Patient Safety Awareness Week the health experts at Envolve, an integrated healthcare solutions company, are pleased to share five ways you can feel more comfortable and safe during your time at the hospital.

1. Study Up. Before an emergency occurs, find time and research area hospitals so you’re able to choose with confidence the venue when you or a loved one needs medical attention. Compare it with other hospitals on measures of patient safety like infections and mortality rates. Be proactive and know what to expect before you arrive so you don’t run into any surprises.

2. Prep & Plan. If you’re scheduling a surgery or choosing a hospital for delivery of a child, schedule a visit to multiple hospitals. Make sure you understand who the care team is, what provider/surgeon will be performing your procedure, and what the pre, during and post rooms look like. Use online reviews and recommendations from your primary care provider or friends who have used the facilities. Understanding what to expect along your hospital journey will help ease your mind and keep stress levels down while you receive care.

3. Keep It Clean. If you’re expecting to stay for an extended period of time, bring disinfected wipes, the hand sanitizer you prefer to use and even your own pillow case if you like. Be aware of the objects and people you come in contact with at the hospital and in your assigned room. Use hand sanitizer or wash your hands frequently. Use your own items or wipe down items in the room throughout your stay.

4. Bring a Friend. It’s nice to have two sets of eyes and ears to better understand what’s going on around you. In the presence of providers, nurses, medical machinery and other patients it can be overwhelming when you’re receiving treatment. Make sure you choose a friend or family member who is willing to ask questions and keep track of your care should you become unable to do so. Having someone with you will provide that extra needed support!

5. Take Note. Have your family member or friend take notes. Make sure you understand every test and every medication being administered during your stay. If you don’t understand - ask! There can be a lot of information to take in so keeping track of your treatment and knowing what is coming next will help you and your caregiver better understand what to expect. Request copies of after-care instructions and all of the discharge paperwork at discharge.

Envolve, Inc.® is a family of health solutions, working together to make healthcare simpler, more effective and more accessible for everyone. As an agent for change in healthcare, Envolve is committed to transforming the health of the community, one person at a time. Envolve unifies medical management, utilization management, specialty pharmacy, PBM, vision, dental, behavioral health management, life and health/wellness management, empowerment and education services, telehealth services, 24/7 nurse advice services, and data, analytics and IT solutions. For more information, please visit our website www.envolvehealth.com or contact us today at info@envolvehealth.com.

7700 Forsyth Blvd.
Clayton MO 63105

This release was published on openPR.